Start your day with a delicious lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the beautiful Chattanooga Riverfront. Afterward, head to Ruby Falls, a breathtaking underground waterfall located more than 1,120 feet beneath Lookout Mountain. The falls are illuminated, allowing for stunning photos. The tour is roughly an hour and a half long, so plan accordingly.
Begin your day at the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the nation's top aquariums. Here, you'll get to see thousands of animals, including penguins, otters, sharks, and jellyfish! Next, head to Lookout Mountain, where you can experience gorgeous views of Tennessee Valley, see Civil War monuments, and take an optional tour of the beautiful gardens at Rock City.
Chattanooga is easily navigable by car, depending on the location of your accommodations. Additionally, downtown Chattanooga and the Riverfront offer several options for getting around, including a free electric shuttle that runs every day. The costs for parking vary, with some garages and lots offering an hourly rate while others may have a flat fee for the day.
If you have more time, there are several additional activities and attractions to check out in Chattanooga, such as the Creative Discovery Museum or the Chattanooga Choo Choo. If you have less time, consider skipping Lookout Mountain and Rock City since they are further away and require more time.
The nearest airport to Chattanooga is the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), which is located about 5 miles east of downtown Chattanooga. Airlines such as American, Delta, and United all offer flights at this airport.